News Release Archive

PREMIER--JAY ABBASS STEPS DOWN/ALAN MITCHELL NEW JUSTICE MINISTER
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Premier John Savage said today he has accepted "with regret" a
decision by Justice Minister Jay Abbass to leave cabinet to
pursue opportunities in the private sector.
"Jay has informed me that he won't be a candidate in the next
provincial election. In light of his decision not to re-offer,
Jay decided it was best to step down from his cabinet post.
However, he intends to remain as MLA for Halifax Chebucto until
an election is called.
"I accept Jay's decision to leave politics in favor of the
private sector. But I do so reluctantly because Jay has been very
supportive of me personally. More importantly, Jay has been an
outstanding member of cabinet."
Premier Savage noted that Mr. Abbass had served in three cabinet
posts.
"Jay played a prominent role in several important government
initiatives. As Labour Minister he helped spearhead the overhaul
of the Workers Compensation Board. He co-chaired the province's
highly successfully G-7 Summit efforts. Most recently he took on
the very difficult task of overseeing the compensation program
for victims of abuse at provincially-run youth facilities."
Premier Savage said Dartmouth-Cole Harbour MLA Alan Mitchell will
be the new Minister of Justice. Mr. Mitchell, a lawyer, will be
sworn in tomorrow morning (Wednesday, April 2) at 9 a.m. at
Province House.
The premier said he is fortunate to be able to replace Mr. Abbass
with someone of the calibre of Alan Mitchell.
"Alan is a very bright, capable and hardworking member of the
government caucus. I have every confidence in Alan's ability to
take on his new responsibilities."
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Contact: David Harrigan 902-424-6600
trp Apr. 1, 1997 - 4:20 p.m.